Importance of dry and transitional period in terms of mastitis in dairy cows

Abstract

Mastitis, one of the most costly problems of dairy farms, is defined as inflammation of mammary gland. Incidence of mastitis varies according to management conditions. But, 50-75% of mastitis originates from dry and transition periods. The dry period is defined as non-lactation stage before parturition. The transition period is defined as the last three weeks before parturition to three weeks after parturition. Cows are very sensitive to mastitis during the first two and last two weeks of the dry period. This is due to anatomical, cellular and humoral changes in mammary at these stages, resulting in deficiencies in the immune system. Environmental pathogens create risk at the beginning and end of the dry period whereas contagious pathogens usually are problem at the beginning of the dry period. In presented review, it is aimed to emphasize importance of the dry period management in mastitis prevention. In this case, first goal should be to maintain general health, to improve environment and shelter conditions and to prevent any stress factor. Afterward, cows should be dry with appropriate protocols according to their health and yield status. In addition, body condition and energy metabolism should be kept at balance level. Also, vaccination, vitamin and trace element administrations should be performed and hygienic conditions must be improved.